A Deeper Look Into Drum Corps History

“In 1963, a drum corps emerged literally from the shadows of the magnificent “Peace Tower” of Parliament Hill in Canada’s National Capital of Ottawa. This group would go on to set the drum corps world on fire, but unfortunately, the flame that was the Cadets LaSalle would burn out much too quickly, lasting for only a decade.” …

“Established in the fall of 1976, Spirit Drum and Bugle Corps was the creation of husband and wife team Freddy Martin, a successful suburban Atlanta band director, and his wife, Lynda. That summer, they and Bob Hoehn partnered with a local network television affiliate to realize their dream of an Atlanta area junior drum and bugle corps.” …

“The Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps has been in existence since 1956. Originating in the “blue collar” community of Rockford, IL, the Regiment is the surviving marching unit in an area where drum and bugle corps have existed since the end of World War I.” …

“In 1972, Canton, OH, police officers J. Babe Stearn and Ralph McCauley, the director and assistant director of the Canton Police Boys Club, met with Canton businessman Art Drukenbrod to discuss an idea they had for a music program at the Boys Club.” …

“The Saint Joseph Patron Parish was small, mostly Italian, and located in Brooklyn, New York. In 1956 the parish leaders were moved to organize a Sea Cadet corps for the youngsters of the neighborhood. The corps had a two-fold mission: to keep the kids out of trouble and to represent the church in parades for the annual Italian feast.” …

“The musical program and drill design underwent explosive growth during the 1980s. In 1980, the Top 12 competing units were playing a musical book that averaged 5 separate selections, much the same as had been done for the previous 20 years.” …

“No history of the 1980s can be written without a look at the influential year of 1979. At first glance, this year might seem like an average year for DCI up to the time.
The Blue Devils had again won the national title. The Top 12 remained essentially the same. Thankfully, Fanfare from “Rocky” and the Theme from “Star Wars” had finally been buried.
What was of significance?” …

“The history of the corps that would be known as the Glassmen actually started in 1961. The Maumee Demons, a senior corps based in the Toledo suburb, wanted to create a positive outlet for the children of the members, as well as the youth of the Toledo area.” …

“Like many Drum and bugle corps, Minnesota Brass, Inc. began during the boom of military-based units after World War II. Unlike most that started during that period, MBI is now experiencing their greatest success and proficiency in their more than 66-year history.” …